Simone Joy Jones, known musically as S!MONE, is a name that’s increasingly making waves in both the acting and music industries, and is redefining the boundaries of R&B. With her soulful voice, captivating lyrics, and unique blend of genres, she’s quickly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with.
Hailing from North Carolina, S!MONE’s passion for music and acting began at a young age. “I was born in Amarillo, Texas, and then we moved to Greensboro,” she recalls. “I had my first audition when I was eight years old, for Nala in ‘The Lion King.’” Her parents, always supportive, encouraged her to pursue her dreams.
S!MONE’s acting career has seen significant growth, from early roles to her breakout performance as Lisa in “Bel-Air.” She credits her time at Carnegie Mellon University for honing her craft and developing a strong work ethic. “Carnegie Mellon taught me the discipline of acting and the importance of embodying a character authentically,” she says.
Her musical journey, however, has been more recent. After years of honing her craft, S!MONE began releasing music independently, gaining recognition for her soulful voice and introspective lyrics. Her early work, characterized by experimental soundscapes and intimate songwriting, laid the foundation for her later, more polished releases.
“I’ve always been drawn to music that pushes boundaries,” she explains. “I wanted to create something that was both familiar and unexpected. I’m influenced by a wide range of artists, from Erykah Badu to Radiohead.”
S!MONE’s latest album, “Magnet,” showcases a more mature and focused sound. “I wanted to create music that was both soulful and modern,” she explains. “I drew inspiration from my personal experiences and emotions, and I tried to capture that in the lyrics and melodies.”
One of the standout tracks on the album, “Circles,” has resonated with listeners. S!MONE revealed, “‘Circles’ is about a toxic relationship. It’s about recognizing patterns and breaking free from them. I wanted to be honest and vulnerable in the song.”
Her castmates from “Bel-Air” have been incredibly supportive of her music career. “They’re always so encouraging,” she says. “They’ve been to my shows, and they’re always giving me feedback and advice. It’s great to have a group of people who truly believe in me.”
When asked about the current state of R&B, S!MONE shared her thoughts on genre boundaries and the importance of authenticity. “R&B is constantly evolving,” she says. “Artists like SZA and Willow Smith are pushing the boundaries of the genre and creating innovative sounds. I think it’s important to embrace different influences and experiment with new styles.”
S!MONE’s unique blend of R&B and alternative influences has garnered her a dedicated fanbase. She’s grateful for the support of her fans and her fellow actors, who have been incredibly supportive of her music career.
As S!MONE continues to make her mark in both acting and music, she remains committed to her artistic vision. “I want to create music that moves people and makes them feel something,” she says. “I’m excited to see where my journey takes me.”
With her talent, passion, and unwavering dedication, S!MONE is poised to become one of the most influential artists of her generation.